NCJ Number
207483
Journal
Western Criminology Review Volume: 4 Issue: 2 Dated: 2003 Pages: 91-107
Date Published
2003
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews the empirical and theoretical evidence of the value of the "reentry court," which is charged with managing the return of ex-inmates to the community.
Abstract
Patterned after drug courts, the reentry court uses its authority to apply graduated sanctions and positive reinforcement while coordinating resources that meet the needs of and support the ex-inmate's reintegration. The concept of the reentry court is under development through pilot sites in nine States, with each site differing significantly from the others in emphases and approaches. This paper distinguishes two basic approaches adopted by the reentry court: the "risk-based" approach, which emphasizes strict supervision and monitoring of the ex-offender; and the "needs-based" approach, which focuses on providing the services and resources needed by the ex-inmate in order to successfully adjust in the community. These two court strategies are assessed, using the criteria of "therapeutic jurisprudence," which pertains to adherence to psychological principles for sustained positive behavioral change. This paper then proposes a strategy that differs from the aforementioned strategies in focusing not on the ex-inmate's risk or needs, but rather on his/her strengths. This involves developing a case-management approach that identifies and builds upon the ex-inmate's assets in terms of personality characteristics, skills, knowledge, and interests. The paper describes how the reentry court would operate under such a "strengths-based" model. 100 references and 10 notes